Recently, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued an epidemiological alert regarding oropouche fever, a virus that, like dengue, is causing great concern in various countries across Latin America.
(More: Virus oropouche: what it is and why this dengue-like illness is causing alarm).
In this way, PAHO called for strengthening surveillance and implementing laboratory diagnosis of the virus in response to the recent increase and expansion of the disease to new areas, as well as the report of the first deaths associated with the infection.
This virus, which is transmitted to humans mainly by the bite of the Culicoides paraensis mosquito and produces a clinical picture similar to dengue, has seen an increase in cases.
According to recent reports from the organization, 8,078 confirmed cases of oropouche fever have been reported in Bolivia, with 356 cases; Brazil, with 7,284 cases; Colombia, with 74 cases; Cuba, with 74 cases; and Peru, with 290 cases, as of August 1.
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PAHO indicates that although the virus has historically been described as mild, the expansion of transmission and the detection of more severe cases underscore the need for increased surveillance and characterization of possible more severe manifestations.
The organization has strengthened diagnostic capabilities in 26 countries in the region. However, the clinical presentation of oropouche is similar to that of other arboviral infections, which can lead to an underestimation of the frequency of the disease.
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Dengue
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The population is advised to take preventive measures, such as using repellents, wearing clothing that covers legs and arms, and using fine mesh mosquito nets, especially during outbreaks and for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women.
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Currently, there are no vaccines or specific antiviral treatments for oropouche fever. Management of the disease focuses on relieving symptoms and rehydrating the patient. PAHO continues to monitor the situation and provide technical assistance to support the response of affected countries in the region.
PORTAFOLIO